Bilirubin is a yellowish brown substance that is present in the bile. It is produced when red blood cells are broken down in the liver. The bilirubin is then eliminated from the body through the stool. Bilirubin also passes into the blood and circulates in indirect and direct form. Bilirubin in indirect form is in an unconjugated state and is insoluble in water. It passes on to the liver where it is converted to a soluble form. Bilirubin in its direct form is conjugated and is soluble in water. Jaundice arises due to an elevation of bilirubin levels. It is characterized by a yellowing of the skin and sclera of the eyes.
Increasing bilirubin levels are usually indicative of a problem with the liver. It could also indicate that the destruction of red blood cells is taking place too quickly. Elevated bilirubin levels may result either because of an excessive production of bilirubin or because the bilirubin is not being eliminated from the body properly. The reduced elimination of bilirubin may take place due to infections such as that of the gall bladder. An inherited condition called Gilbert’s syndrome also affects the processing of bilirubin by the liver. Liver damage such as cirrhosis or hepatitis, problems of the digestive system and obstruction of the bile ducts also reduces the elimination of bilirubin from the body. Increased bilirubin levels may result when red blood cells are destroyed rapidly. This could arise due to sickle cell disease or transfusion reaction, wherein there is an allergic reaction to the new blood that has been received.
The levels of bilirubin are known to reduce when regular exercise is performed for at least half an hour daily. If exercise is not possible, you can also take a twenty minute walk every day, and slowly increase the duration each day. Dietary changes also help in the lowering of bilirubin levels. Consuming foods such as radish, tomatoes, dried fruits and coconut water on a regular basis help greatly in reducing bilirubin levels. These lifestyle and dietary changes must be practiced together in order to obtain best results. Herbal remedies such as Echinacea juice or goldenseal juice are believed to be beneficial in cases of elevated bilirubin levels. You may also combine 10 grams of turmeric powder and 50 grams of yogurt. Make equal parts of this mixture and consume in the mornings and evenings for a period of fifteen days.